Part parachute, part kite, parafoils are the lightest, most efficient non-mechanized lifting surface yet devised. A popular choice for lifting photographic equipment as well as banners and windsocks into the sky.

A truly modern kite made entirely from fabric, maintaining its form not with spars but by the action of the wind entering its openings. The wing is divided by a series of ribs, or risers which retain its aerofoil shape in flight. Lateral stability is achieved by fins, or keels, sewn to the face of the kite and held in shape by a system of shroud lines, basically a multi-legged bridle, from which the parafoil is flown.